Eight-Legged Horse: Xwejni’s Unwanted Visitor

Imagine strolling along the peaceful Xwejni Bay, the sun warming your face, the salty sea breeze in your hair. Suddenly, you spot something… unusual. A horse, yes, but with eight legs. You blink, rub your eyes, but it’s still there. Welcome to the mystery that’s got Malta buzzing.

The Creature from the Sea

Xwejni, a quiet fishing village on Gozo’s northwest coast, is known for its tranquil beaches and crystal-clear waters. But recently, something strange has been washing up on its shores. Locals first noticed the eight-legged horse, made of what appears to be driftwood and rope, a few weeks ago. It’s since become a bizarre local attraction, drawing curious onlookers and causing a stir.

“It’s like something from a fairy tale,” says Maria Azzopardi, a Xwejni resident. “But not everyone’s enchanted. Some people are upset. They say it’s not right, it’s disrespectful to our traditions.”

Divided Opinions

Opinions are indeed divided. While some see it as a quirky piece of art, others view it as an eyesore, a mockery of their cultural heritage. The horse, with its eight legs and makeshift materials, bears an uncanny resemblance to the traditional Maltese horse, but with a surreal twist.

“It’s not how we represent our culture,” argues Joseph Camilleri, a local fisherman. “We have a rich history, a deep respect for our traditions. This… this is just weird.”

But artist and Xwejni native, Daniel Portelli, sees it differently. “Art is meant to challenge, to make us think. This piece does that. It’s a conversation starter, a symbol of our island’s resilience, our ability to adapt, to evolve.”

The Search for Answers

The mystery deepens as no one claims responsibility for the eight-legged horse. The Gozo Regional Committee has been flooded with calls, but they’re no closer to finding out who created it. Some suspect it’s a publicity stunt, others a prank gone too far.

Meanwhile, the horse remains, tide-worn and weather-beaten, a silent sentinel on Xwejni’s shore. It’s become a symbol of the island’s duality – its love for tradition and its embrace of the unusual.

“It’s not going anywhere,” says Portelli. “It’s part of Xwejni now. Part of our story.”